Business
Uncertainty over presidential poll date hampers share trading
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By Hiran H. Senewiratne
Stock market trading was tardy yesterday due to continuing delays in the external debt restructuring exercise coupled with internal political uncertainty stemming from controversies surrounding the date of the presidential poll.
Amid those developments both indices moved downwards. The All Share Price Index went down by 8.39 points, while S and PSL20 declined by 7.64 points.
Turnover stood at Rs 541 million with two crossings. Those crossings were reported in JKH, which crossed 200,000 shares to the tune of Rs 39.6 million; its share price was Rs 198 and NTB 200,000 shares crossed for Rs 25 million; its shares traded at Rs 125.
In the retail market top seven companies that mainly contributed to the turnover were; JKH Rs 92 million (467,000 shares traded), CIC Holdings Rs.22.3 million (321,000 shares traded), Dipped Products Rs 19.5 million (546,000 shares traded), HNB Rs 17.1 million (87000 shares traded), Melstacope Rs 15.5 million (183,000 shares traded), NTB Rs.14.9 million (129,000 shares traded) and Hayleys Rs 14.9 million (307,000 shares traded). During the day 17.6 million share volumes changed hands in 6000 transactions.
Yesterday, the rupee opened slightly stronger at Rs 303.40/70 to the US dollar, while bond yields were broadly steady, and stocks opened 0.22 percent up, dealers said.
The rupee closed at Rs 303.63/72 to the greenback on the previous day.In the secondary market, yields were broadly steady, dealers said.A bond maturing on 15.02.2028 was quoted at 11.80/85 percent from 11.85/95 percent.A bond maturing on 15.09.2029 was quoted at 12.08/18 percent from 12.05/10 percent.
Business
HNB Assurance climbs 13 places on LMD 100 rankings
![](http://island.lk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SI-P18-19-01-Ckg-4-1.jpg)
HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) made a significant ascent in the latest LMD 100 rankings climbing 13 places to reach rank 64, cementing its position as one of Sri Lanka’s leading listed companies. Throughout the past few years, HNB Assurance has grown stronger, smarter and more united in its purpose, turning challenges into opportunities and refining every aspect of its operations.
The LMD 100 is a prestigious annual ranking that evaluates the financial and strategic performance of publicly listed companies in Sri Lanka. HNB Assurance has consistently climbed the ranks year after year in recent years, reflecting the company’s sustained growth. With 2025 underway, HNB Assurance is planning to leverage its strengths and growth momentum maintained over the past couple of years, as this year represents the penultimate step in its ambitious journey toward achieving the vision of “10% market share by 2026”, a transformative goal that aims to redefine, elevate and position the company as a trailblazer in the industry.
Sharing his thoughts on the company’s new ranking, Lasitha Wimalarathne, Chief Executive Officer of HNB Assurance PLC, stated, “Our upward trajectory in the LMD 100 rankings reflects the collective efforts of our incredible team, the trust our customers have placed in us and our ability to adapt to the dynamic business landscape. At HNB Assurance, we remain committed to strengthening our core business, embracing innovation and delivering sustainable value to all our stakeholders.”
“As we step into 2025, it is inspiring to reflect on our journey so far. By the end of Q3 2024, we achieved growth that was well above the industry average, a remarkable feat we’ve consistently maintained since 2022. This success has been driven by the exceptional efforts of our sales force both from the Advisor Distribution and Partnerships channels, alongside the support of all our teams. I must also add that our vision for ‘10 in 2026’ is not merely a corporate milestone, it embodies our broader aspiration to transform lives, uplift communities and set new benchmarks in the industry. As the countdown to this goal continues, we will maintain our growth, while continuing to stive and create a lasting impact on the lives of our policyholders.” added, Wimalaratne.
Business
Sri Lanka Insurance further Expand its presence to Naiwala
![](http://island.lk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SI-P18-19-01-Ckg-5.jpg)
Sri Lanka Insurance further expands its presence in the Upper Western region with the opens its Naiwala Agency Business Development Center (ABDC) on the 12th of December at No.90/6/C, Airport Road, Naiwala junction, Veyangoda.
The occasion was graced by SLIC Life Chief Business Officer Namalee A. Silva, Deputy General Manager – National Sales (Life) Jagath Welgama, Upper Western regional management, Branch Management of Veyangoda representing Life and General categories. Distinguished invitees and customers of the area were also in attendance at the event.
Agency Business Development Centers (ABDC) allows SLIC to further enhance its reach, which provides convenience and speed of service delivery to its loyal customers in relation with their protection needs.
Business
CEAT Kelani Launches high-performance tractor tyre for Maha season
![](http://island.lk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SI-P19-19-01-Ckg-9.jpg)
CEAT Kelani Holdings has introduced a new high-performance tractor tyre, the 13.6 – 28 PUDDLE XL TT 12PR, just in time for the harvest phase of the Maha cultivation season. Designed specifically for agricultural use, this innovative cross-ply tyre promises to enhance farming efficiency and tractor operations.
Compatible with leading tractor brands such as Sonalika, TAFE, John Deere, and Mahindra, the tyre features advanced design elements tailored for puddling operations. Its higher non-skid depth (NSD) ensures superior traction in wet and muddy conditions, while wide and angular lugs improve stability and grip. The tyre’s deep and open shoulders allow for effective self-cleaning, and reinforced carcass construction extends its lifespan, offering excellent value for farmers.
This is the sixth tractor tyre variant developed and manufactured locally by CEAT Kelani Holdings, showcasing the company’s dedication to the agriculture sector.
CEAT Kelani Chief Operating Officer Shamal Gunawardene noted that the tyre addresses the unique challenges faced during the harvest period. “It ensures improved performance, durability, and reliability, empowering farmers and operators to achieve better productivity,” he said.
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